Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the InterLibrary Loan Process

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about ILLiad

Materials are requested in accordance with Florida Library Information Network policy

Is there a charge for this service?

Only if the lending library charges us. We always try to request materials from libraries that do not charge fees. We borrow from a library that charges only if you authorize us to do so. Fees are due and payable when you pick up the materials.

What materials can be requested through interlibrary loan?

We attempt to borrow all materials with the exception of e-books, downloadable audio files, reference materials and text books. Many participating libraries will not lend their non-print items (DVDs and CDs) or genealogical materials. Participating libraries keep titles in high demand for the use of their patrons and will not lend an item that is less than 1 year old.

How long does it take to get an item through interlibrary loan?

We strive to fill requests within 4-6 weeks, but time can vary.

Who can request an interlibrary loan?

Most Leon County Library cardholders are eligible for interlibrary loans. Click here for information on how to get a library card. We cannot process school-related items for current FSU, FAMU or TCC students. These patrons should go to their school libraries. Interlibrary loans will not be checked out to patrons with overdue materials or outstanding fines

How many items can I request at a time?

Each patron may have 5 active requests. Requests are active until completed and updated as closed by interlibrary loan staff. In order to process requests in a timely manner, we are unable to request the same title for the same patron within a six-month period.

Can interlibrary loan items be renewed?

No, interlibrary loans cannot be renewed. To have the most time with your request, please pick up your interlibrary loan requests as soon as possible after notification.

I lost an interlibrary loan item or it got damaged.

Patrons will be expected to pay the replacement cost of damaged or unreturned items as determined by the lending library's policies.

Who can I talk to for more information?

Call the Leon County Main library at (850) 606-2665 and ask for interlibrary loans.

What is ILLiad?

ILLiad is the electronic system you use to request an item through Interlibrary Loan. The name ILLiad can be thought of as an acronym for InterLibrary Loan internet accessible database.

How is ILLiad better than traditional ILL systems?

  1. You will find it easier to submit your interlibrary loan requests. With ILLiad, you enter your name, address, and other personal information into the system only once, at the time of your first request.
  2. Your request will be handled more rapidly and accurately as problems relating to misinterpretation of hand-written requests are eliminated.
  3. You can get many of your articles more quickly through Electronic Delivery.
  4. You can get information about the status of your request through the Web at any time from any location without having to call the ILL Department.
  5. Library personnel are able to serve you better because all data about your request and its handling is stored in a searchable database. We are able to respond quickly to your inquiries about your request. We are also able to gather statistical information about the performance of the libraries that lend to us, enabling us to make better decisions when choosing a lender to supply an item.

Are there any disadvantages to the electronic system?

Some people might find it troublesome to have to log into ILLiad using a username and password. We believe this is less trouble than traditional paper and electronic systems which require you to enter your personal information with each new request.

Why do I need a username and password to use ILLiad?

Your username and password allows us to give you secure access to information about your interlibrary loan requests. We can also enable you to edit your personal information such as your address or phone number.

Your username can be anything you like, such as your name, abbreviations, or an alphanumeric code. Your password also can be anything you like. We recommend that you follow good security practice and choose a password that is different from those you use to access other systems. However, no one but you will know your password, not even the library staff. The password you set is stored in an encrypted file.

What if I forget my password?

In the event that you forget your password, please contact the Interlibrary Loan Office at (800) 555-1212. We can then reset your password allowing you access to ILLiad. Please change your password once you logon to ILLiad.

What Web browser should I use?

You need a Web browser that can handle forms, tables, and preferrably Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). We recommend the current versions of either Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox.

Is security a problem if I use a public workstation?

Yes. Web browsers cache information and create a history file on the local workstation. This allows a subsequent user of the workstation to access the system under your name using the browser's Back button to recall a page from the cache, or by finding a page with your personal information in the browser's history file. If you are concerned about the security of your interlibrary loan requests, you can take the following steps:

  • Access ILLiad only from your personal computer or an otherwise secure workstation.
  • Access ILLiad from a public workstation in the Interlibrary Loan office in the library. These computers are supervised by the library staff.
  • When using a public access workstation:
    1. Delete from the history file those pages that contain your personal information.
    2. Exit from the Web browser before you leave the workstation. This prevents the Back button from accessing the pages you were using.

Why don't I see all my older requests when I look at my request history?

From time to time we purge older records from ILLiad. Our policy is to keep requests online for several years order to comply with record keeping requirements of the copyright law.

Who do I contact if I have problems with or questions about ILLiad?

System Problems or InterLibrary Loan Questions: InterLibrary Loan office at (800) 555-1212 or e-mail to ill@your.site.name
Technical Support Questions: E-mail anytime to ill@your.site.here

Why does my browser say that you're sending a cookie? What's in it?

The technology that we use sends a Session ID to be stored on your machine. You can refuse this cookie and still be able to use ILLiad without any problems.